Glossary
We’ve curated a glossary of terms regarding all things writing and publishing related. From commonly-used terms to abbreviations, our glossary will guide writers and people starting out in publishing, to cut through the jargon and gain a better understanding.
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Auction
An auction, usually arranged by a literary agent, takes place when multiple publishing houses are interested in acquiring a manuscript and bid against one another to secure the domestic or territorial rights.
CMYK
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is the colour space for printed materials.
Design
When features of the book including the cover, interior artwork, images, the page layout and typesetting are decided.
Ghostwriting
When a book is written up by an uncredited writer, from interviews with the credited author or the credited author\'s draft and notes. The uncredited writer will write as if the credited author is the narrator. This is often done for life stories or autobiographies.
Literary agent
Represent writers and their works. They match books to suitable publishers and negotiate publishing contracts and rights deals. They also co-ordinate the business side of publishing on behalf of authors.